The Indie Author’s Friendly Guide to Book Marketing: Get Reviews, Boost Sales, and Build Your Platform

Why I Chose Independent Publishing

One of the biggest reasons I decided to go the indie publishing route is that traditional publishers are offering less and less support to authors. Marketing budgets have shrunk, and with the rise of digital media, authors are now expected to build their own online presence, including a website and social media channels tailored to their readership.

This shift makes sense in our digital world, but it also means that the success of your book depends largely on you. While a traditional publisher might help with a few things—like getting you on a panel discussion or placing your book in select bookstores—the reality is that most of the heavy lifting will fall on your shoulders.

When you add in the long wait times and uncertain acceptance process of traditional publishing, it’s easy to see why so many writers are choosing to self-publish. And the good news? With the right marketing strategies, you can get your book in front of the right readers!

Essential Book Marketing Strategies for Indie Authors

There are many fantastic ways to promote your book, but most require some investment. Let’s break down the best options to help you get the visibility and sales you deserve.

1. Get Professional Reviews

If you want to see your book on bookstore shelves or gain credibility with libraries and online retailers, professional reviews are a must. They provide social proof, give potential readers confidence in your work, and make it easier to approach distributors.

Here are some top indie book review options:

• Kirkus Indie Review ($425): A widely respected name in publishing, Kirkus offers an unbiased review within seven to nine weeks. If you like it, you can choose to publish it, and Kirkus will share it with their partner sites, including Google and BN.com.
• BookLife by Publisher’s Weekly (starts at $399): If you’ve ever dreamed of getting reviewed by Publisher’s Weekly, this is your chance! A positive review here can be a game-changer.
• Foreword Clarion Review ($499): Foreword Reviews is well-known in the indie publishing world. Their Clarion Review provides a thorough analysis of your book, helping you gain credibility and exposure.

A strong review from one of these sources can make all the difference when approaching bookstores, libraries, and even potential readers.

2. Get Noticed with BookBub

If you’ve published an ebook, BookBub is an incredible platform to reach readers. They boast over 10 million members, all eager to discover their next favorite book. The downside? Only 5% of submitted books are accepted, and pricing starts at $550. But if you make the cut, you’ll get in front of a massive, engaged audience of book lovers.

3. Enter Book Awards

Winning or even being a finalist in a book award competition can give your book a serious boost. Awards provide credibility, open doors for new opportunities, and serve as powerful marketing tools.

Here are some highly regarded awards for indie authors:

• IPPY Awards (Independent Publisher Book Awards)
• Moonbeam Children’s Book Awards (great for kids’ books!)
• ForeWord INDIEFAB Awards
• Next Generation Indie Book Awards

Placing in one of these contests can give you great material for your marketing and help set your book apart from the crowd.

4. Tap into Your Personal Network

Your friends, family, colleagues, and acquaintances can be your best marketing asset! They already support you, so why not invite them to be part of your book’s success?

Here are a few simple ways they can help:

• Leave a review on Amazon (even a few reviews can boost visibility!)
• Share your book on social media
• Recommend your book to their own networks

Social media is also a powerful tool for spreading the word. Platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube allow you to engage with readers, share behind-the-scenes moments, and build excitement around your book.

5. Use Book Marketing Websites

There are countless websites and resources designed specifically to help indie authors promote their books. One excellent site to check out is Indies Unlimited, which offers helpful marketing strategies, promotional opportunities, and tips on getting the most out of self-publishing.

6. Apply for Library of Congress Inclusion

Another great way to add credibility to your book is by applying for inclusion in the Library of Congress. This can help with library distribution and give your book a professional edge.

Final Thoughts

Marketing as an indie author might seem overwhelming, but with the right approach, you can build your audience, boost book sales, and establish yourself as a successful writer. By securing professional reviews, leveraging platforms like BookBub, submitting to book awards, engaging your network, and exploring dedicated marketing sites, you’ll give your book the best chance of reaching the readers who will love it.

So go ahead—spread the word, enjoy the process, and celebrate every milestone along the way. Your book deserves to be read!